Shot fired during armed robbery in Nelson

An armed man entered Kootenay Currency Exchange on Vernon Street this afternoon, threatened staff and then fired his gun.

He also got into an office and left with an undisclosed amount of cash. Fortunately no one was injured. However, according to Nelson police, the employees were understandably upset.

The incident took place at approximately 1:15 p.m.

The suspect is described as approximately 5’8" with a medium build. He was wearing a blue baseball cap under a black hoodie. He was also wearing baggy light grey sweat pants and dark shoes.

The man fled the scene on a small green road bike, with dropped handlebars and a small saddle bag under the seat. There were brakes on the top and bottom of the handlebars. The bicycle was reportedly stolen from the driveway of a residence on Stanley Street prior to the incident.

The public is reminded to use extreme caution if you see this person and do not approach him. Call 911 immediately. It is unknown at this time if the recent armed robberies in the West Kootenay are related to this incident.

If you have any information concerning this armed robbery, please call police at 250-354-3919 or call Crime Stoppers.

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